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1962 Map of Iris

Name: 1962 Topographic Map of Iris
Creator: U.S. Geological Survey
Published: 1980
License: https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/

USGS Topo · Published 1980

About this map

Iris and the surrounding mining district of the Gunnison and Saguache County line define this high-elevation landscape as it appeared in the mid-20th century. The settlement at Iris is marked by the presence of the Denver City Mine and Mineral Hill Mine, reflecting a historical reliance on mineral extraction in the region. To the north, homesteading is evident through family-named sites like the Flick Homestead and Mick Homestead, while the eastern portion of the map transitions toward ranching interests such as the Kreuger Ranch near Sillsville.

The complex topography is dissected by numerous drainages, most notably Cochetopa Creek flowing through Cochetopa Canyon. Prospectors and settlers utilized a network of jeep trails to navigate the rugged drainages of Chance Gulch and Merry-go-round Gulch. Significant mining activity is recorded throughout, including the Maple Leaf Mine and Lucky Strike Mine, alongside infrastructure like the Iris Cem and various limekilns, documenting the hard-scrabble development of the Colorado high country.